Newbie

Hello! I was diagnosed with GERD 3 years ago, though I've been dealing with sporadic episodes of acid reflux since my teens (about 30 years, now). I had my gall bladder out 3 years ago, and the GERD has been a constant unwanted companion since that time. Relux is worse at night, in spite of sleeping with a 12" wedge pillow and popping Gavison like candy.

Meds that I've tried are Pariet, Nexium, Prevacid and Pantoprazole -- none really seems to help much. The Gaviscon does help but I am worried about the long term effects of it and the PPIs. I use DGL before meals and at night when my symptoms aren't that bad.

I've made dietary changes (restrict intake of tomatoes -- difficult as I'm Italian -- citrus, chocolate, peppermint, and caffeine -- all my favourite foods) in addition to the above. I don't smoke, I am not overweight, and I eat a pretty healthy diet, I think.

An endoscopy two years ago was clear. My doctors are saying this is something I must live with. I'm having a very hard time accepting this. No one else in my family suffers from this.

I am looking forward to learning and sharing with the other members or this forum.

Have you discussed surgical options? I recently had an endoscopy that didn't turn anything up, but I expressed interest in surgery to my gastroenterologist, who referred me to a surgeon. The surgeon said I was an ideal candidate even though I didn't have any big health risks from the GERD, and I am "getting wrapped" in four days. A desire to change your situation, along with a disinclination for lifetime medication and your young age could be reason enough for surgery! If your doctor isn't helpful, you might want to try for a second opinion.

I haven't considered that, yet. I guess I'm still hopeful that I will somehow get it under control. And because my GERD became worse after my gall bladder surgery, I'm a little worried about another one. At the same time, I'm not ruling it out in the future. Best if luck with your surgery.

Get rid of the pillow wedge. Get bed risers or blocks instead. The wedge causes you to bend wrong at night causing more night reflux.My GI kept saying I don't think the surgery will really help you. I was constantly coughing from the acid getting into my lungs. I went for a second opinion and the doctor said it would help me. I had the Modified Hill (his speciality) and am cough free.

Hey Tirali,Keep us updated on your wrap. I would be really interested in your recovery. I'm a candidate for surgery. I get all the tests next Monday. So today is day one without any PPI's. It feels like Im on line going into hell. As of right now I have to options either the Nissen or the Esophyx procedure. But I won;t know for sure until the motility test and Bravo are completed and the Doc wants to see how big my HH is. Its its larger than 3 cm than im limited to the Nissen. Please keep us updated.